Otega Oweh of Kentucky basketball declares for the NBA draft while still being eligible to attend college.

iturn0image2Otega Oweh Declares for NBA Draft While Retaining College Eligibility

In a significant development for Kentucky Wildcats basketball, guard Otega Oweh has declared for the 2025 NBA Draft while maintaining his NCAA eligibility, allowing him the option to return to college basketball. This decision follows a standout junior season at Kentucky, after transferring from the Oklahoma Sooners. During the season, Oweh averaged 16.2 points on 49.2% shooting, along with 4.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.6 steals per game, and shot 35.5% from beyond the arc. He has until the NBA Draft withdrawal deadline on June 15 at 5 PM ET to make a final decision. Fans now await his next move. citeturn0news12

Background and Development

Oweh, a 6-foot-4 guard from Newark, New Jersey, began his collegiate career at Oklahoma, where he averaged 11.4 points and 3.8 rebounds per game during his sophomore season. Known for his defensive prowess and ability to draw fouls, he transferred to Kentucky for the 2024-25 season. Under head coach Mark Pope, Oweh’s game flourished, showcasing significant improvements in his scoring efficiency and perimeter shooting. His performance earned him Second-Team All-SEC honors, making him the only Wildcat to receive postseason recognition from SEC coaches. citeturn0search1

NBA Draft Prospects

Despite his impressive statistics, Oweh is not currently projected as a first-round pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. ESPN’s mock draft does not include him in the first round, and he is ranked No. 92 on their Big Board. citeturn0news13 However, his decision to declare for the draft while retaining eligibility indicates his desire to explore professional opportunities and receive feedback from NBA scouts.

Potential Return to Kentucky

Oweh’s declaration allows him to participate in the NBA Draft process, including workouts and evaluations, without forfeiting his college eligibility. This provides him with the flexibility to return to Kentucky for his senior season if he chooses not to pursue a professional career immediately. His return would be a significant boost for the Wildcats, who would retain their leading scorer and a key contributor to their success.

Looking Ahead

As the NBA Draft approaches, all eyes will be on Oweh’s decision. His performance in the coming weeks, including any workouts or evaluations, could influence his draft stock and future plans. Kentucky fans remain hopeful that Oweh will continue to develop under Coach Pope’s guidance, whether in the NBA or back in Lexington for another season.